JWF AT THE 29th AFS YOUTH ASSEMBLY

In celebration of International Youth Day, the Journalists and Writers Foundation (JWF) proudly participated in the 29th AFS Youth Assembly in New York as a program partner. Centered around the theme “Forge Our Shared Future,” this year’s assembly brought together youth advocates and young professionals from over 100 countries, fostering connections among like-minded leaders and influencers to cultivate global competencies and transform visions into impactful actions.

AFS invited youth leaders worldwide to join the Youth Assembly Alumni Impact Network Community, a platform designed to amplify their influence both regionally and globally. The 29th AFS Youth Assembly featured keynote addresses, thematic discussions, skill-building workshops, and an awards ceremony honoring young global citizens. Throughout the day, JWF team members engaged with participants at the civil society fair, connecting with dynamic leaders dedicated to reshaping the world.

The JWF is committed to supporting the AFS Youth Assembly, which prioritizes creating a safe, diverse, and inclusive event for young individuals from various countries and communities. Our mission is to empower and engage the next generation of leaders, offering tangible avenues to address global challenges and turn their aspirations for a better future into reality.

Throughout the event, the JWF booth attracted transformative youth leaders, scholars, and professionals. JWF President Mehmet Kilic and Youth Representative Banu Uyanik shared valuable insights and opportunities with young leaders to help them enhance their networks, develop diplomatic skills, and gain civil society tools to meaningfully contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Participants were informed about JWF’s signature events, including the upcoming 9th Annual SDGs Conference 2024, the Pioneers in SDGs Awards 2024, and opportunities within the UN Commission on the Status of Women. Additionally, attendees could explore Media and Journalism Webinars, a free certificate program that facilitates discussions on contemporary challenges and threats against media professionals worldwide. AFS Youth Assembly delegates were also encouraged to participate in the 9th SDGs Conference: In the Margins of the UN General Assembly’s 79th Session and to submit their impactful civil society projects for consideration in the Pioneers in SDGs Awards 2024, which shines a light on transformative social initiatives.

An engaging highlight of the day was the SDGs Challenge, where young attendees answered questions related to the sustainable development goals. Participants selected a question from the SDGs Challenge box and received small rewards for their correct answers, encouraging active participation and learning.

Photos from the AFS Youth Assembly Event